Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen M. Nielsen has identified MS-13 as the first gang dangerous enough to be classified as a transnational criminal organization. Yet the gang’s history, evolution from a localized violent gang to brutal transnational structure driving massive immigration flows to the United States while shredding the social fabric, democratic institutions and rule of law in Central America’s Northern Triangle is little understood. The growing territorial control, ties to drug trafficking and multiple criminal activities, increasing military sophistication and growing political ambitions have transformed the MS-13 into a de facto state in much of the region despite millions of dollars spent on multiple failed strategies to combat the group. The impact of the gang’s growing strength has significant harmful spillover effects across the region, through Mexico and inside the United States. The Forum will focus on the transformation of the MS-13 and its growing criminal/political/economic force.

This event is open to the public; simultaneous English-Spanish interpretation will be provided.